Why your dashboard duck might melt (and how to stop it)

Every figurine we ship is printed in PLA, a plant-based plastic that is wonderful for detailed prints and slightly dramatic about heat. PLA begins to soften around 140°F (60°C). A car sitting in direct sun with the windows up can clear that easily by early afternoon, even in spring.

What actually happens

The figurine will not turn into a puddle. What you will see first is a lean — the base creeps slightly to one side and the duck starts looking like it has had a long day. Leave it longer and thin parts such as a hat brim or a tail can droop permanently.

Three ways to keep it upright

• Park in shade or use a windshield sunshade. The difference between direct sun and shade on a dashboard is routinely 30–40°F.
• Move your pal to the center console or the cup holder when you leave the car for more than an hour.
• If you want a permanent dashboard resident, ask us about a PETG print. It handles heat far better and costs a few dollars more.

A leaning duck is not a defect. It is a duck that spent the afternoon in a greenhouse.

If a piece does deform, do not try to bend it back while cold — PLA cracks rather than flexes. A brief warm-water bath around 120°F will make it pliable enough to correct, then hold the shape under cool running water.